Ben Tillman Pruitt, Jr. , 83, of Anderson, SC, passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023 at AnMed Medical Center.

Born May 24, 1940 in Milwaukee, WI, he was a son of the late Ben Tillman Pruitt, Sr. and Helen Pentaller Pruitt.

Ben graduated from Anderson College and Clemson University. In his earlier years, Ben was an ambulance driver which led to career as a medical technician with Anderson Orthopedic Clinic. His career remained in the medical field, and he became one of the first physician assistants in South Carolina.

He enjoyed life. Auto racing was a favorite pastime, drag and stock car racing. He liked fishing, but thoroughly treasured turkey hunting with the grands. Ben was a family man. Spending time in the company of his wife, children and especially the grands, was prized moments. He loved his family, Savior and was a member of Riverside Baptist Church.

Ben is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn Brown Pruitt; daughter Tammy Pruitt Mangum; son, Steven Pruitt; grandchildren Patrick Mangum (Brittany), Zachary Mangum, and Jennifer Mangum, Molly Pruitt (Rishabh Agarwal), Sanders Pruitt and Jacob Pruitt; great grandchildren, Preston and Bennett Mangum; and siblings, Raymon "Butch" Pruitt (Brenda) and Karen Pruitt Ellison.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by daughter-in-law, Ashley Pruitt, son-in-law, Dennis Mangum; and brother-in-law, Marvin Ellison.

A memorial service to honor the life of Ben Pruitt, will be held on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Riverside Baptist Church. Reverend Wayne Adams will officiate. The family will greet family and friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riverside Baptist Church or the American Cancer Society.